Bayesian game based pseudo honeypot model in social networks

Abstract

In this paper, we study applying honeypots to protect social networks against DDoS attacks. Different from previous works that study honeypots for DDoS attacks, we consider attackers are rational and know to optimize attacking strategies based on the defender’s strategy. To deal with such strategic attackers, we propose a novel pseudo honeypot game model following the Bayesian game setting. In addition, we rigorously prove the existence of Bayesian Nash equilibriums (BNEs) and show how to find them in all different cases. Simulations show the BNEs achieved in the games not only reduce energy consumption but also improve efficiency of the defense.